In the City of Brotherly Love, a love for hearty sandwiches runs deep. Philly's best sandwiches are more than just meals; they're institutions, each with its unique history and culinary charm. So, buckle up as we take you on a mouthwatering journey through Philadelphia's sandwich scene.
Kicking off our list is the quintessential Philadelphia cheesesteak. This iconic sandwich, born in the early 20th century, features thinly sliced ribeye, sautéed onions, and melted cheese—either provolone or Cheez Whiz—stuffed into a crusty hoagie roll.
The Philly Cheesesteak
The cheesesteak's simplicity belies its complexity. The perfect version requires a tender, thinly sliced ribeye, cooked to order, and a hoagie roll that can hold it all without collapsing. The cheese, while a humble addition, kicks the flavor into high gear.
Yet, Lahoda's and Pat's King of Steaks, two longstanding competitors, differ significantly. Lahoda's slices their meat thick, while Pat's favors thin slices. Both, however, offer a taste of Philadelphia's vibrant food culture.
Lahoda's
Established in 1908, Lahoda's is a South Philly institution. Its cheesesteaks are as much about the experience as the food. Order the "Whiz Wit," featuring Cheez Whiz, sautéed onions, and a cluster of mushrooms. It's a symphony of savory flavors that'll leave you craving more.
Remember, the staff might harass you about your order, but it's all part of the fun. Just don't take it personally!
Pat's King of Steaks
Since 1930, Pat's has dished out what many consider the gold standard of cheesesteaks. The secret? Their custom-blended seasoning salt. Ask for a "Pat's Whiz Wit," and you'll be rewarded with a workload of thinly sliced ribeye, melted Cheez Whiz, and sautéed onions.
Insider tip: Ride-sharing services often struggle with Pat's location, so arrive prepared with directions.
Moving on, let's explore another Philadelphia original—the roast pork sandwich. This hearty meal tastes like Thanksgiving dinner on a roll, with slow-roasted pork, sharp provolone, and garlicky broccoli rabe.
The PORCO Sandwich
The roast pork sandwich, also known as the PORCO, hails from John's Roast Pork, a tiny hole-in-the-wall shop with loyal followers. The secret? Their slow-roasted pork takes over 24 hours to cook and is so tender, it falls apart.
Pair it with a can of birch beer, a local drink, and you've got a meal that's pure comfort food.
John's Roast Pork
John's is a South Philly gem, and its roast pork sandwich is a testament to old-school craftsmanship. The long, slow cooking process coaxes out the pork's natural flavors, resulting in a sandwich that's both savory and sweet.
Be prepared for lines, especially during lunch hours. Bonus: Their Italian sausage sandwich is no slouch either!
Finally, let's talk about the Italian Market—Philly's version of Little Italy. Here, sandwiches come filled with cold cuts, sharp cheeses, and various Italian condiments.
Italian Market Sandwiches
The Italian Market's offerings vary, but one constant is the incredible variety. From tied-dress beef to prosciutto cotto, every sandwich tells a story of Italian immigrant history.
Look for Dre reveals D'Orazio's, a Delancey Street establishment boasting a massive selection of Italian meats and cheeses.
Dre Avenue Deli's "The Godfather"
Order the "Godfather," a towering construction of coppa, prosciutto, CapeMay dry salami, pepperoni, and provolone. The capicola, aged mozzarella, and roasted peppers add another layer of complexity. Opt for the seeded roll for added texture.
Wash it down with an espresso from the in-house café, and you've got a well-rounded Italian Market experience.
A visit to Philadelphia is incomplete without exploring its sandwich scene. From the iconic cheesesteak to the hearty PORCO, each sandwich tells a story of the city's rich culinary heritage. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a sandwich, take a seat, and indulge in Philadelphia's unique identity, one bite at a time. See you in line!"